VATICAN, Nov. 14, 00 (CWNews.com) -- About 65,000 soldiers and police officers have registered
to take part in a Jubilee observance in Rome on November 18 and 19. The Jubilee will be organized
around the theme: "With Christ, for the defense of justice and peace."
Among the participants, Vatican organizers expect 50,000 Italians, 1,700 Spaniards, 1,500 Poles, and
smaller delegations from France, Austria, Germany, Chile, Portugal, Croatia, Ireland, Hungary,
Switzerland, and the United States.
The Jubilee will include penitential services, organized according to linguistic groups, on Saturday,
followed by a massive communal observance of the Way of the Cross. On Saturday evening the
participants will gather in the Paul VI auditorium for a concert honoring soldiers, police officers, and
other peacekeepers.
On Sunday, November 19, there will be a solemn Mass in St. Peter's Square, with Pope John Paul II
presiding. And the participants will gather in the Vatican basilica that evening for a final session of
prayer.